Breast cancer is one of the most talked-about cancers in Zimbabwe, yet many myths and misconceptions still surround it.
BREAST cancer is one of the most talked-about cancers in Zimbabwe, yet many myths and misconceptions still surround it.
From social media posts to casual conversations, misinformation can create fear and delay life-saving action. Understanding the facts is crucial -- for women and men of all ages. Here, we separate truth from fiction.
Myth 1: Breast cancer is mostly genetic -- if it doesn't run in my family, I won't get it
Fact: Most people diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease. Only about 5-10% of cases are inherited. Most cancers develop over time due to factors like aging, lifestyle, hormones and environmental exposure.
Myth 2: Young women don't get breast cancer
Fact: Risk increases with age, but young women can get breast cancer, even in their 20s and 30s. Women of all ages should check their breasts regularly and report any unusual changes to a doctor. Early detection saves lives.
Myth 3: Men can't get breast cancer
Fact: Men have breast tissue too, so they can develop breast cancer, though it's rare. About 1 in 8 women and 1 in 883 men will get breast cancer in their lifetime. Men should also be aware of chest changes and seek medical advice if needed.
Myth 4: The surest sign of breast cancer is a lump
Fact: About 80% of lumps in women's breasts are non-cancerous, caused by cysts or other harmless changes. A lump is not the only warning sign. Look out for:
Fluid discharge from the nipple
Changes in the nipple's appearance or inversion
Swelling or dimpling of the breast
Redness, scarring or changes in breast size/shape
Lumps in the armpit
Early detection is about noticing any unusual changes, not just lumps.
Myth 5: Wearing a wired bra causes breast cancer
Fact: Wired bras do not block lymph flow or cause cancer. Choose your bra for comfort -- it has no impact on your breast health.
Myth 6: Carrying your cellphone in your bra increases risk
Fact: There is no conclusive evidence linking phones to breast cancer. Phones emit low-level energy that slightly heats tissue but doesn't damage cells. To be safe, carry your phone in your bag rather than on your body, especially while sleeping.
Myth 7: Using underarm antiperspirants causes breast cancer
Fact: Chemicals in antiperspirants do not cause breast cancer. Breast cancer begins in breast tissue, not from substances absorbed under the arm. Antiperspirants are safe to use.
Myth 8: Herbs can cure breast cancer
Fact: Some herbal remedies may help with side effects, but no herbs cure breast cancer. In some cases, herbs can even interfere with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Always consult your doctor before trying alternative treatment.
Myth 9: Breast cancer radiotherapy kills more than it cures
Fact: Radiotherapy, like surgery and chemotherapy, saves lives. Side effects can be tough, but these treatments are effective, especially when started early. In Zimbabwe, late diagnoses make outcomes seem poor, but radiotherapy itself does not cause death -- it often relieves symptoms in advanced cases. Early treatment significantly improves survival.
Myth 10: Mammograms can give you breast cancer
Fact: Mammograms use very low doses of radiation and are extremely safe. The benefits of early detection far outweigh any minimal risk. Regular mammograms save lives by catching cancer early, when it's most treatable.
Breast cancer awareness is more than wearing pink -- it's about knowing the facts, acting early and encouraging others to do the same. In Zimbabwe, where late diagnosis is common, understanding the truth about breast cancer can save lives. Speak openly, get screened and support one another. Together, we can replace myths with knowledge, fear with action and create a future where breast cancer is a story of hope and survival.